Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive system. When people with celiac disease consume gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, their immune system responds by attacking the small intestine. This can lead to damage of the villi, small finger-like projections lining the intestine, which are essential for nutrient absorption. At Digestive System Healthcare, our board-certified providers are skilled in diagnosing and managing celiac disease. If you are seeking treatment for celiac disease, contact us to request a consultation.
What causes celiac disease?
Celiac disease is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some common triggers and risk factors include:
- Genetics: People with a family history of celiac disease are at higher risk.
- Immune response: Ingesting gluten triggers an abnormal immune response in individuals with celiac disease.
- Environmental factors: Early exposure to gluten and certain infections may contribute to the development of celiac disease.
- Other autoimmune disorders: People with conditions such as type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroid disease, and autoimmune hepatitis are at increased risk.
What are common symptoms of celiac disease?
The symptoms of celiac disease can vary widely among individuals and may include:
- Digestive symptoms: Diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, and gas.
- Nutrient deficiencies: Fatigue, anemia, and weight loss due to malabsorption of nutrients.
- Skin rash: Dermatitis herpetiformis, a blistering skin rash, is often associated with celiac disease.
- Bone and joint pain: Osteoporosis or osteopenia due to poor calcium and vitamin D absorption.
- Neurological symptoms: Headaches, migraines, peripheral neuropathy, and “brain fog.”
- Other symptoms: Mouth ulcers, dental enamel defects, and infertility or recurrent miscarriages.
How is celiac disease diagnosed?
To diagnose celiac disease, your doctor may recommend several tests and procedures, including:
- Blood tests: Screening tests for specific antibodies, such as tissue transglutaminase (tTG) and endomysial antibodies (EMA), which are typically elevated in celiac disease.
- Genetic testing: To check for HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes, which are associated with celiac disease.
- Endoscopy: A procedure where a small camera is used to examine the small intestine and take a biopsy to check for damage to the villi.
- Capsule endoscopy: In some cases, this may be used to visualize the small intestine.
Managing Celiac Disease
Living with celiac disease requires ongoing management and lifestyle adjustments:
- Education: Learning which foods are safe to eat and how to avoid gluten.
- Support groups: Connecting with others who have celiac disease for support and advice.
- Follow-up care: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition and nutritional status.
- Awareness: Staying informed about new developments in gluten-free products and treatments.
What are the treatment options for celiac disease?
The only effective treatment for celiac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. This involves:
- Avoiding gluten: Eliminating all foods containing wheat, barley, and rye. This includes many breads, pastas, cereals, and processed foods.
- Reading labels: Carefully checking food labels for gluten-containing ingredients.
- Cross-contamination: Being cautious to avoid cross-contamination with gluten during food preparation.
- Dietary supplements: Taking supplements to address any nutrient deficiencies caused by malabsorption.
